Biomass and Bioenergy: Applications

Biomass obtained from agricultural residues or forest can be used to produce different materials and bioenergy required in a modern society. As compared to other resources available, biomass is one of the most common and widespread resources in the world. Thus, biomass has the potential to provide a renewable energy source, both locally and across large areas of the world. It is estimated that the total investment in the biomass sector between 2008 and 2021 will reach the large sum of $104 billion. Presently bioenergy is the most important renewable energy option and will remain so the near and medium-term future. Previously several countries try to explore the utilization of biomass in bioenergy and composite sector. Biomass has the potential to become the world’s largest and most sustainable energy source and will be very much in demand. Bioenergy is based on resources that can be utilized on a sustainable basis all around the world and can thus serve as an effective option for the provision of energy services. In addition, the benefits accrued go beyond energy provision, creating unique opportunities for regional development.   The present book will provide an up-to-date account of non-wood, forest residues, agricultural biomass (natural fibers), and energy crops together with processing, properties, and its applications to ensure biomass utilization and reuse. All aspects of biomass and bioenergy and their properties and applications will be critically re-examined. The book consists of three sections, presenting Non wood and forest products from forestry, arboriculture activities or from wood processing, agricultural biomass (natural fibers) from agricultural harvesting or processing and finally energy crops: high yield crops and grasses grown especially for energy production.​

The current book is the second volume of the “Biomass and Bioenergy” series, specifically written to offer new and updated materials related to the applications of biomass and bioenergy. Unique topics include non-wood renewable materials (oil palm, bamboo, rattan, bagasse, and kenaf); upgrading of oil palm as added product (a long identified sustainable source of renewable energy); biodiesel synthesis using transesterification of triglycerides and application of single-step process for biodiesel synthesis from microalgae; electrochemically active biofilms for microbial fuel cells, nanomaterial synthesis, bioremediation and bio-hydrogen production; microalgal biomass as a source of renewable energy; a critical analysis of the current situation and future needs for lignocellulosic biomass; utilization of sawmill by-product for making cellulose and its valuable derivatives; valorization of oil palm biomass in relation to biorefinery approach; polylactic acid-based kenaf biomass synthesis; chemical functionalization of natural cellulosic fibers for green polymer composites applications; recent applications of kapok fiber; abaca fiber as a renewable bio-resource for industrial uses and other applications in environmental protection; recent advances in nanofibrillated cellulose extraction; termites from pest to biopolymer derivatives extractor with special emphasis on termite lignocellulolytic system; and last but not least, applications of biomass derived catalyst.

We hope this book will serve as a comprehensive primer for individuals who are interested in learning about the vast potentials oftropical biomass.